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How to Start an Exterminator Business

If you’re the type of person who loves to solve problems and has an iron nerve, you should consider starting your own extermination business by following the below steps. This article will show you how to start a very in demand business…how to start an exterminator business. Nobody wants a pest control service in their home, but when your house is infested, you know you want a reliable team on the case. If you end up needing an exterminator instead of starting your own, you may want to check out something like pest control services Carlisle for an effective pest control service.

How to Start an Exterminator Business

How to Start an Exterminator Business Step 1: Get Credentialed

There are a number of ways to handle this first step in learning how to start an exterminator business. The easiest way is going to be simply working for another company for a while. Just be sure that the company operates in the same area where you want to work. Otherwise, you’ll be learning about exterminating pests that don’t actually live in your service area and won’t know how to kill off others.

That being said, some people gravitate to this industry and teach themselves along the way and/or read up on extermination. The former method is still recommend, but may not be necessary.

How to Start an Exterminator Business Step 2: Pick Your Niche, Location, & Get an Operator’s License

Picking your location will narrow down your options for specialty/niche.

Types of Pest Control:

General Household Pests

General Insect Control

Flying Insects

Rodent Control

Termite Control

Lawn and Garden Insects & Pests

Birds & Animals

Next get an operator license, which has different requirements in every state. However, you’re going to need an operator’s license, which requires taking an exam. That’s one more reason why you should consider actually working for a company first before trying to start one of your own. Its always good to do research on your competition in the area as well. For example checking out termite control los angeles if you’re in the los angeles area. To understand the prices of the area.

In a lot of states, you can’t even get a license without a work history that shows you know what you’re doing (unless you have a relevant degree).

Pest University offers insight into the decision makers of commercial accounts (see how to market your Pest Control Business)

How to Start an Exterminator Business Step 3: License Your Business

After you handle that first license, you’ll need to actually license your business as well. This isn’t just about getting recognized by the government as a company, though. You need to specifically apply for an exterminator’s license. Once again, this will differ a bit from one state to the next.

How to Start an Exterminator Business Step 4: Invest in Equipment & Supplies

Now that you are able to start your company, the next step in learning how to start an exterminator business is getting your hands on all the equipment and supplies you’ll need to kill off those pests.

Obviously, you’ll need to know the type of pests you plan on going after so you buy the right supplies. To save money, order them online.

Types of Equipment:

Bait Guns

Fumigant Applicators

Generators

Dusters

Heaters

Injectors

Insect Lights

Personal Safety Equipment

Sprayers

Tools

Foggers

Pumps

Tanks

Treating Devices

This will also include your uniform which should include a full bodysuit (extra points if you get it embroidered for a professional look), eye protection, mask, boots, and gloves.

Types of Supplies:

Aerosols

Spray Conentrates

Bait Insecticides

Insect Traps

Rodent & Animal Control Products

Insecticide Granules

Dust Incecticides

Equipment & Parts

Bird Control Products

Deodorizers & Sanitizers

Insect Growth Regulators

Educational Material

How to Start an Exterminator Business Step 5: Get Marketing

The last step is letting the world know you’re here to help. One of the keys to large growth is your ability to obtain COMMERCIAL ACCOUNTS. These larger accounts will decrease your time advertising to small residential homes and increase your time producing profits. It is important to know how to approach and sell to decision makers.